The Full Immunisation Schedule

Optional Vaccinations

These vaccinations are offered on the NHS in addition to the routine programme to “at-risk” groups of babies and children.

Chickenpox vaccination (varicella)
Protects against: chickenpox
Who needs it: siblings of children who have suppressed immune systems and are susceptible to chickenpox, for example because they’re having cancer treatment or have had an organ transplant.
Given: from one year of age upwards (one dose for children from one year to 12 years, two doses given four to eight weeks apart for children aged 13 years or older)Read more about the chickenpox jab

BCG (tuberculosis) vaccination
Protects against: tuberculosis (TB)
Who needs it: babies and children who have a high chance of coming into contact with tuberculosis
Given: from birth to 16 years of ageRead more about the BCG vaccine